I just bought this machine after three years of owning and enjoying my barista express. I’m so incredibly excited to get it! Thanks WLL for the incredible reviews and work in the specialty coffee world.
@@slukas1375it’s been great! The finish is very precise, built like a tank. Overall, the machine is quite simple, which I like. Steam power is great, I’m still getting used to the timing of aeration since my old machine had plenty of time to incorporate air. I favor espresso straight, while my wife likes a latte in the morning. I haven’t played much with the PID switch, however, steam power rose super fast with the switch all the way to the right. A little too much power for me right now. You won’t be disappointed if you want a simple, classy, and refined machine that delivers on the coffee produced. I love the pre saturation mode as well. Shots come out looking so beautiful from the bottomless portafilter. I’m brewing Merit Coffee, their “Andino Leal” blend and another of their Guatemala coffees, medium and light respectively. This machine was able to produce a shot as good as when I visit their cafe, they have a Slayer 1 group that is >$15K, EK grinders, etc. I coupled this with a Varia VS3, gen 2 and love the results.
Likewise 5 years with the Barista Express and 20 secs to being able to brew... order the ECM Mechanika VI Slim Heritage arriving in 4 weeks and hope that the start up times don't kill me and I love the user experience.
Oh my god. I have a killer super automatic, but this machine/grinder combo is making me jealous!!! 😂 Nobody on YT is better than Marc at these machine overviews! 🎉🎉🎉
Well, I literally contacted ECM in Germany and said why don't you offer matte steel finishes and allow for other colors. I also messaged WLL in a couple videos. Both said they are working on it. Great to hear you take advice on what the customers want. Great step in the right direction to be on trend.
This exactly. I’m not sure why more manufacturers don’t offer it. I’d literally have bought a Profitec P500 PID if it weren’t for it’s shined steel finish
Happy New Year Marc, visiting a Rocket owner the other day, the E61 is very nice. When you owned a Profitec/ECM for some time, you will truly understand the extreme quality of its construction. For example, I took out the Rocket tray and without lying, the tray of my Profitec weighs twice as much and the thickness of the metal of my Profitec is much greater. Profitec Happy Owner .....
Hey Marc. Hello.. Your videos are informative, and the way you present yourself and the product has been progressive throughout months and years, and now it's excellent. This also would, in turn, resonate with the company you work for. Keep up the excellence. I have a questions: If it was you, which espresso machine would you buy for a lifetime and why?
Hello, Thanks for the kind comments! For a lifetime machine my first choice is the ECM Synchronika. It's a cut above the competition in design and finish quality. Marc
Great great video!. I just bumped myself up from a Silvia to a technika iv and the coffee is simply amazing! (Not to mention the workflow) ECM is doing a great job!
Hi SoS, Yes it is! Thanks for the comment. We've been working on manufacturers to switch out singles for bottomless based on results of a consumer preference poll we did a couple of years ago. Marc
@@Wholelattelovepage Absolutely!! The customers would love it. Also tell the Gaggia reps that most people don't want the pressurized basket and would love to have a stock 9 bar pressure as opposed to having to swap it out ourselves :)
I have the Mechanica V Slim. Love it but the biggest annoyance was the open vacuum relief valve on top of the boiler.. I modified mine after purchase. This new version is a nice improvement.
Hi Hans, Thanks for the comment - it is a wonderful machine. The newest version, the Mechanika Max does have the shot timer and buckets of new functions like the ability to run in a brew temperature control mode, flush advisor when run in standard HX mode, programmable on/off times and a whole latte more. Check it out in this video: th-cam.com/video/UfEysGSVEd8/w-d-xo.html Marc
Hi d, while we don't have them side by side in a video we have individual videos on the Pro 500: th-cam.com/video/vuci2UFdt4w/w-d-xo.html Or check out our video with Best HX machines of 2023 which includes the Pro 500 and the ECM Mechanika Max (most recent version of the Mechanika) plus 3 other machines: th-cam.com/video/Oe15ZFi5IhI/w-d-xo.html Marc
@@Wholelattelovepage Thanks ! The best 2023 HX machine include the Max not the slim. My question is the following; is the Profitec 400 and Slim VI the same machine but with better finish on the ECM ?
@@danielmorin1909 That is correct. More detail in ECM finishing and it has angled portafilter handle. P400 has dual gauge and Slim uses 2 individual gauges.
Hi Marc, thanks for the cool video - I just bought a my own Mechanika 6 Heritage yesterday and now I´m looking for some advice for the first installment/first use when I start the machine for the first time. Can you give any advice for that? I´ve read different things already and would love to hear your tips when starting it for the first time! Cheers
Hey Marc, great review. I like this machine, is it possible to steam and brew at same time in any of the modes or do you have to be in the highest frothing mode/ highest temp? Thanks!
Hey TJ, yes! If BTC (Brew Temperature Control) is off you can brew and steam simultaneously at any time. If using one of the BTC modes, press the up button during an extraction and the boiler begins heating to the temperature set in T2. As soon as pressure reads above 1.2 bar in the boiler you can begin steaming. Marc
Hello from Melbourne, Australia Marc. Hope you are well mate. You videos are quite detailed and descriptive. I need to pick between Profitec 400 and this one. There isn't a huge price difference between those two here is Australia. whats your thoughts please? is the difference noticeable to 3 to 4 coffees a day at home. thanks!
Hi a, I am well - especially since we just started summer! Thanks for the kind comments on the videos. Guessing you may already know that Profitec and ECM are sister companies? Anyway, functionality between the 400 and the VI Slim is essentially the same. The Slim has a larger boiler and a little extra detail in finishing like the angled portafilters. At the same price I'd go Slim! Marc
Thanks for the review! YOu just reassured me that this is the machine I need to get. On a sid enote: I don't know if you had professional voice training or this comes naturally but I know a lot of singers (me included) who would kill for a timbre like that :D
Hey Herby, Thanks for the kind words! No pro training but before I got into coffee I did VO work for broadcast TV stations. I'm jealous of singers! About the only thing my singing voice works for is the opening to ZZ Top's La Grange and maybe some Barry White for the wife. 😂 Marc
Hi Marc. Great videos you guys make! :-) I own a Breville barista pro but I am considering upgrading to this wonderful ECM. You mention that the boiler size is 2,2 liter but at the ECM official website (and in their catalogue) they mention the boiler volume is (aprox.) 1,9 Liters. Did ECM change the size of the boiler in this model? ....and also; how important would you say the boiler size is in normal home use?
Hey Daniel, Thanks for the kind comment on our videos and questions. The 2.2 spec came from our tech dept. My guess is that includes the volume of the heat exchange section of the boiler and ECM's figure does not. In HX boiler machines a larger boiler allows more headroom in the boiler for longer lasting steam and faster recovery after steaming and/or an extraction or pulling hot water from the boiler. How important a larger boiler is depends on how you use the machine. Certainly helps if making multiple drinks back to back. But, if you're making a single drink every 10-20 minutes you likely wouldn't notice the difference with a smaller boiler unless steaming large amounts of milk. Hope that helps! Marc
I absolutely love the esthetics of the heritage machine. Can you explain why the heritage machine only comes with the one year warranty where most ECM machines come with 3 years?
Hi Lauren, It is a beautiful machine! If you'd like a gig as a proofreader... looks like you discovered a typo - thanks! Just confirmed with our product manager the warranty is same at 3 years. Marc
Hi Marc, quick question for you. I see the example you’re using has flow control, however the one on the site for purchase does not, not does it have an option to add it onto the machine. Is this an error, or are they no longer offered with flow control in the heritage style?
Hi bttb, I recommend >20 minutes for full heat up of the group with PF locked in. You can help that along a bit running blank shots once you have some pressure in the boiler. Marc
@@Wholelattelovepage yes, what's holding me back is that, even with this new look, it's a machine that's a bit dated for the asking price. There's a lot of innovation going on these days. I'm not sure. Thanks for everything.
Hi Mark- what is the next step up if you want a machine that also has PID control? I do not like the thought of having to rely that those three switches are always working properly. I have a Rancilio Sylvia now and like the PID mod but want to upgrade my machine.
Hi mk, If you like the Silvia a value step up from there is the Silvia Pro X dual boiler: www.wholelattelove.com/products/rancilio-silvia-pro-x-dual-boiler-espresso-machine-in-black In full PID HX boiler machine I like the Profitec Pro 500: www.wholelattelove.com/products/profitec-pro-500-pid-espresso-machine-with-flow-control In single boiler full PID there's the ECM Classika which has an E61 group: www.wholelattelove.com/products/ecm-classika-pid-espresso-machine-with-flow-control-olive-wood In full PID value priced single boiler with ring group the Profitec GO: www.wholelattelove.com/products/profitec-go-espresso-machine-red-with-walnut Hope that helps! Marc
Hi Marc, thanks for another wonderful all round review, I need you advise on selecting between Profitech Pro 400 vs ECM Mechanika VI slim, I don't do back to back multiple milk based drinks, I am more into specially coffee and want to extract flavors so extraction quality is what I am looking for....... Thanks
Hi k, Sorry I somehow missed your question. If still considering those machines know they are essentially identical in potential extraction quality. They both have the 3-way PID driven temperature control. Difference is the Slim has a larger boiler. I would suggest getting the flow control version of either machine which greatly expands capabilities using specialty coffee. Marc
Hi DF, Well, there's the aesthetics which are subjective. Larger boiler in the Slim and easier to bump up to higher steaming power. Gauge up high on this one. They're down low on the 500. Our version of the Pro 500 has visible PID and shot timer. No timer on the Slim. Degree by degree temps on the 500 and 2 basic brew temp ranges on the Slim. Hope that helps! Marc
hi dj, Should not affect brewing temps. Not enough time to transfer heat from the steam producing section to the isolated brew water section of the boiler if the shot is already in progress. Marc
I am curious about the price difference between the Mechanic VI and the Profitec 500. They are so close in price considering the 500 has so many more features? Can you explain? Trying to decide on which one to get.
Hi Karen, ECM machines tend to run a little more expensive than similar Profitec's. Finishing quality is slightly better and ECM portafilters are angled/balanced. The version of the Pro 500 we carry at Whole Latte Love is an exclusive with the visible PID/shot timer. Marc
Hi YS, Hmmm... not sure what site you refer to but our site, the manufacturers and this video clearly state/show 3 way temp control: www.wholelattelove.com/products/ecm-mechanika-vi-slim-espresso-machine-heritage-line Marc
@@Wholelattelovepage in the video there are three pressure measurements, one of them in the middle. In the site there are only two. I'm a newcomer so maybe I don't understand. Isn't the device in the middle a part of the machine? Is it flow control that purchased separately?
If you are using the pre-infusion function how would I expect that to affect the timing of my shot? Dark roast, 18 grams in/36 grams out in 27-32 seconds on average without pre-infusion. Also, I thought the video said it was shipped with pre-infusion activated by default but I don’t think mine came this way…pump doesn’t turn off after the first few seconds…can I tell just by activating the pump without a portafilter and see if the pump pauses?
Hi Richard, In general pre-infusion tends to speed up shots a bit. So shots are usually a little faster once the pump comes to full pressure. But there are many variables involved. In most cases I grind a hair finer when using pre-infusion. Yes, you can check to see if pre-infusion is enable by raising the lever without the PF attached. Marc
I bought the Pro 400 in November. This machine looks so much better with the copper finish. I doubt I would pay roughly extra $500 for the looks though.
Hi Marc, I'm in New Zealand and the heritage model is $600 more than the profitec pro 400. Would the bigger boiler and better finish details justify the price difference? Been looking at purchasing a machine and have been tossing up between the mechanika , the pro 400 and rocket appartamento.
Hey ed, Thanks for the question. Finish details of the Heritage edition is going to be a subjective call. Personally, I really like the look! The bigger boiler is nice, but doesn't add much to quality of finished espresso - it's more about capacity. So, if not making a lot of drinks back to back or taking off hot water on a regular you're not likely to notice much benefit. Pro 400 is a very similar machine (ECM/Profitec are sister companies) just a little lighter on the finish details. The newer TCA version of the Appartamento has a similar PID controlled temperature range adjustment and a very unique new look for the E61 group head. The TCA uses the E61 lever to program the desired temp range which takes a little getting used to compared to the switch adjustment of the Mechanika and Pr0 400. Hope that helps! Marc
We started on a Gaggia Classic Pro about 4 years ago which is really starting to show its age. What would the benefits be of upgrading to this, and would you recommend anything similar in the same price bracket? Cheers :)
Hi at, thanks for the question. The Classic Pro is a single boiler machine. Moving up to a machine with a heat exchange boiler give you the ability to brew and steam simultaneously. Also no need to cool down and refill the boiler after steaming. While you can temperature surf the Classic the Slim has a switch for selecting brew temperature ranges appropriate to the coffee you are using. Here are all machines in the $1500 - 2000 range: www.wholelattelove.com/collections/semi-automatic-espresso-machines?pf_p_price=1500%3A2000 Of those in the link I like the Bezzera BZ13, Profitec Pro 500. Those are both HX boiler machines but have more precise temperature settings. The Profitec Pro 300 is a dual boiler that's good for lower volume use. It has more precision in brew temps due to the isolated boiler. Marc
Hi David, Enter ECO mode in programming and push the down button until screen says off. This video shows how: th-cam.com/video/JiWUAA1kVP0/w-d-xo.htmlsi=77ecju8RxZxv1lDT&t=124 As well as all other menu programming functions Marc
QQ on a technical / functional front. I just received an ECM Mechanika VI and after the initial setup, the unit WILL NOT stop hissing / sputtering / discharging from the OPV overflow port behind the group head. There is no pause with it, it's going through all the water in the tank, steaming up the entire front of the unit, and making constant noise. Now, this can't be normal right?
Hi a, If in US/Canada please contact our Tech Support staff here for assistance: support.wholelattelove.com/hc/en-us/categories/360005124554-Technical-Support
Hi Marc, how exactly does the VI Slim PID controlled boiler improve from the pressure stat of the V Slim without degree accurate temperature setting? Throughout the shot is there less variation in temperature with the PID or does this result in more consistency of temperature curves shot to shot compared to the prior generation? Thanks!
Hey Austin, Pressurestats have a much wider temperature swing than a PID. In this machine you get 3 (PID controlled) temp presets each of which provides a more consistent temp.
Hi p, How to turn pre-infusion and eco modes on/off is covered starting on page 32 of this manual: www.ecm.de/fileadmin/user_upload/BA_MV-VI-Slim-web-2023-06.pdf Hope that helps! Marc
Hey J K, The main difference is 3 level PID temperature control on the VI Slim vs. pressurestat control of temps on the V Slim. Pressurestat temps are adjustable but you have to open up the machine to change. Marc
Hi Ray Ray, Thanks for the question. Need to flush depends on: How long machine has been on, time since last use, ambient temperature and if portafilter is kept in group while machine is idle. The mix of these variables makes it difficult to give definitive answer. For example: a machine that's been on and idle for an hour in a warm environment without the portafilter in the group might need a flush. A general sweet spot of no flush needed is in the 20-35 minute range after turning machine on. To check if the machine needs a flush run the pump without portafilter in place. If flow out of the group is bubbly and steamy then continue running the pump a few seconds until flow is smooth. If flow is smooth when pump is turned on no flush is needed. Hope that helps! Marc
Just purchased the gaggia classic pro from whole latte love. I have one issue with it. The pressure release wand does not fit the whole where it's supposed to go. Need someone to call me to discuss a solution for it. As I have been sending messages thru your website and gotten no answer yet.
Hi Tony, I believe you are referring to the Decompression Duct. Here's the video with solution if you're having a hard time installing the duct: th-cam.com/video/t-VYpzMPb9g/w-d-xo.html Marc
Does anyone with this model (heritage or not) notice that the OPV exhaust port behind the group head is non-stop hissing and sputtering steam? Not just at first, during or after a brew, but all the time? If i did nothing, this would drain my tank after a while.
Hi a, Sounds like (literally) your vacuum relief valve on the steam boiler is not fully closing. Here's a video showing how to fix that: support.wholelattelove.com/hc/en-us/articles/4410889505555--ECM-Synchronika-Clean-or-Replace-the-Vacuum-Relief-Valve Video demos on an ECM Synchronika but process is similar for Mechanika
The PID switch sounds cool but in practical use, you will have to wait for the temperature in the boiler and grouphead to drop back to the regular temperature suitable for extraction. Making coffee at those temperatures will likely burn off much of the flavours. That cooling takes a few minutes to recover, way more than the 7-second benefit. This may be good if the user is all for the quantity and nothing else. Longevity wise, setting such high temperature will have a detrimental effect on the electrical components, especially in the summer. It dramatically reduces the lifespan. Given that these machines have very tight space inside, there should be a more significant effect. Combine with the eco mode, which users may use instead of the given switch to switch the machine off. That's going to stress the components heavily if the user leaves it at the high setting and walks off, which is a likely scenario to happen. The most eco and safest way is to switch the device off after usage, not wait for 90 minutes. The ECO mode is a great feature if the user has dementia. The fundamental to what WLL said about temperature is accurate, lower temp for a darker roast. I don't know about the lighter roast because it helps, but that's because of more dosage of coffee usually used. It could be a different story if the user uses a low dose or prefers the coffee made in a particular way. In my country, most people prefer the darker roast, like in most places. So the lower range is always safer for taste and the machine. I don't know how this sense of over-engineering helps users in real life, but it adds a few new points of failure in the technical aspect. There should be a more considerable difference between the profitec and ECM version, that's the start-up time. It may shave of a few minutes with the smaller boiler. Nonetheless, this is another excellent video from WLL.
Hi DB, Thanks for sharing your thoughts. I wonder what real copper would look like after some use? I suppose some might appreciate the patina and others not so much. Marc
@@Wholelattelovepage Hi Marc, agree. However there are proven methods manufacturers have been using to lock in the look and feel of real copper, for some time now. It will patina to a degree, but not to the point where you are continuously needing to restore it as an end user. Looking at more detail on this Machanika model, it appears the water and steam plates are indeed made of real copper but not sure if anything else is.
Hi Timur, It sits in a price range similar to other HX machines with vibration pumps. It's currently a few hundred less than lowest priced machine with rotary pump.
I keep mine on the lowest heat setting (1) and after 25 minutes it's hot enough for my espresso. You could probably reduce the time if you set it to a higher temperature and run some hot water through the portafilter.
Hi DtT, I generally allow 25 minutes for larger boiler E61 group machines to fully warmup. As mentioned in another comment you can run some blank shots through the PF to help things along. Could also use an appliance power timer to turn on the machine early so it's ready and waiting. Marc
@@Wholelattelovepage My machine is up to pressure in 10/11 minutes then I run some water through the group head to warm my cup and wait a couple more minutes. Maybe I’m brewing too soon but waiting for 25 minutes I have to run more water to cool it down as there is crackling overheated water coming out. Is pressure not an indicator that the machine is ready to brew?
Hi Marc, how does this ECM or any other ECM HX go with flushing to bring the temp down to brew temp? Does the brew temp switch on the side act like the Lelit Mara X brew priority switch where it lowers the stream boiler temp to prioritise brewing temperature?
It’s a beautiful machine but If this machine was around that $1700 price point that would be a good buy. For me I would rather just spend an extra $1000 and get the Synchronica. You can spend an extra $300 and get the profitec 600 dual boiler.
I like the size and love the look, but am deterred when you mentioned it is 'sister' of profitec 400. I bought a profitec 500 5 years ago, but only continuously used it for about 3.5 years ffor just one person (me!) and it just stopped heating. I tried everything recommended on the site and from WLL tech support. Nothing worked.
Hi S, Profitec and ECM machines are regarded as among the most well built and reliable machines made. With proper user maintenance they should give decades of service. I do not know the details of your issue but it should be correctable. It may be a simple as resetting a high limit switch on top of the boiler. I urge you to reach out to our tech support team for assistance: www.wholelattelove.com/pages/contact-us
Hey Brian, yes, start with the Synchronika and you're unlikely to experience upgraditis - a terminal condition, the main symptom of which is the insatiable desire to upgrade. Marc
wow I used to watch this channel alot ... Glad to see Mark is still around Looking good!!
Keep up the good work!!!
Hi Sf, Thanks for the kind comment! Still alive and kicking!!!
Marc
@@Wholelattelovepage I was Glad to see that!!🙂
I just bought this machine after three years of owning and enjoying my barista express. I’m so incredibly excited to get it! Thanks WLL for the incredible reviews and work in the specialty coffee world.
Hey Daniel - so how are you liking your new ECM? Just curious as it's on my radar.... Thx. SL.
@@slukas1375it’s been great! The finish is very precise, built like a tank. Overall, the machine is quite simple, which I like. Steam power is great, I’m still getting used to the timing of aeration since my old machine had plenty of time to incorporate air. I favor espresso straight, while my wife likes a latte in the morning. I haven’t played much with the PID switch, however, steam power rose super fast with the switch all the way to the right. A little too much power for me right now. You won’t be disappointed if you want a simple, classy, and refined machine that delivers on the coffee produced. I love the pre saturation mode as well. Shots come out looking so beautiful from the bottomless portafilter. I’m brewing Merit Coffee, their “Andino Leal” blend and another of their Guatemala coffees, medium and light respectively. This machine was able to produce a shot as good as when I visit their cafe, they have a Slayer 1 group that is >$15K, EK grinders, etc. I coupled this with a Varia VS3, gen 2 and love the results.
Likewise 5 years with the Barista Express and 20 secs to being able to brew... order the ECM Mechanika VI Slim Heritage arriving in 4 weeks and hope that the start up times don't kill me and I love the user experience.
Oh my god. I have a killer super automatic, but this machine/grinder combo is making me jealous!!! 😂 Nobody on YT is better than Marc at these machine overviews! 🎉🎉🎉
Hi PSW, Thanks for the kind comment - they are a beautiful pair!
Marc
@Whole Latta Love, Great Video - I purchased this day one of release here in the UK. The look and build quality of this Espresso Machine is Stunning 😎
Hi D, Thanks for sharing your thoughts!
Marc
Well, I literally contacted ECM in Germany and said why don't you offer matte steel finishes and allow for other colors. I also messaged WLL in a couple videos. Both said they are working on it. Great to hear you take advice on what the customers want. Great step in the right direction to be on trend.
This exactly. I’m not sure why more manufacturers don’t offer it. I’d literally have bought a Profitec P500 PID if it weren’t for it’s shined steel finish
Happy New Year Marc, visiting a Rocket owner the other day, the E61 is very nice. When you owned a Profitec/ECM for some time, you will truly understand the extreme quality of its construction. For example, I took out the Rocket tray and without lying, the tray of my Profitec weighs twice as much and the thickness of the metal of my Profitec is much greater. Profitec Happy Owner .....
Similar experience. I have an ECM at home, and a Rocket is in our break room at work. No comparison in the quality IMO.
That is good to know. Thanks.
Hey Marc. Hello.. Your videos are informative, and the way you present yourself and the product has been progressive throughout months and years, and now it's excellent. This also would, in turn, resonate with the company you work for. Keep up the excellence.
I have a questions: If it was you, which espresso machine would you buy for a lifetime and why?
Hello, Thanks for the kind comments!
For a lifetime machine my first choice is the ECM Synchronika. It's a cut above the competition in design and finish quality.
Marc
Great great video!. I just bumped myself up from a Silvia to a technika iv and the coffee is simply amazing! (Not to mention the workflow) ECM is doing a great job!
Hi dcds, thanks for the comment. That's a very nice upgrade! Yes, much nicer workflow going from single to heat exchange boiler machine!
Marc
Hi Marc, what a lovely machine! Please tell the folks at ECM/Profitec that we would rather have a bottomless portafilter instead of a single. Thanks!
Hi SoS, Yes it is! Thanks for the comment. We've been working on manufacturers to switch out singles for bottomless based on results of a consumer preference poll we did a couple of years ago.
Marc
also 4 hole steam tips if you could
@@Wholelattelovepage Absolutely!! The customers would love it. Also tell the Gaggia reps that most people don't want the pressurized basket and would love to have a stock 9 bar pressure as opposed to having to swap it out ourselves :)
Add a third rather than replace the single. There are many of us pulling singles.
@@drazenbabich Difference is that you can pull a single fine from a double spout.
Great video Marc. Happy New Year mate :)
Thanks, you too!
Marc
Excellent review - everything I want in a coffee machine. Order placed in Europe after watching it
I have the Mechanica V Slim. Love it but the biggest annoyance was the open vacuum relief valve on top of the boiler.. I modified mine after purchase. This new version is a nice improvement.
Hi Todd, Thanks for sharing!
Marc
Great info, thanks!
You bet!
I have the original, It's a great machine. Would have loved to have seen a built in shot timer in the new model
Hi Hans, Thanks for the comment - it is a wonderful machine. The newest version, the Mechanika Max does have the shot timer and buckets of new functions like the ability to run in a brew temperature control mode, flush advisor when run in standard HX mode, programmable on/off times and a whole latte more. Check it out in this video: th-cam.com/video/UfEysGSVEd8/w-d-xo.html
Marc
Looks great, but I can’t help but notice that the form factor and functionality is very similar to the Lelit Mara X.
Love this machine..❤
it would be great to have a comparison with the Profitec 500 ... I'm eyeing both and wondering if the $75 difference is worth it.
Hi d, while we don't have them side by side in a video we have individual videos on the Pro 500: th-cam.com/video/vuci2UFdt4w/w-d-xo.html Or check out our video with Best HX machines of 2023 which includes the Pro 500 and the ECM Mechanika Max (most recent version of the Mechanika) plus 3 other machines: th-cam.com/video/Oe15ZFi5IhI/w-d-xo.html
Marc
@@Wholelattelovepage Thanks ! The best 2023 HX machine include the Max not the slim. My question is the following; is the Profitec 400 and Slim VI the same machine but with better finish on the ECM ?
@@danielmorin1909 That is correct. More detail in ECM finishing and it has angled portafilter handle. P400 has dual gauge and Slim uses 2 individual gauges.
Hi there! Is it possible to get this machine updated with the ECM quick steam joystick? Thanks
Unfortunately not. Perhaps hackable with the right parts, but not available that way out of box.
Hi Marc, thanks for the cool video - I just bought a my own Mechanika 6 Heritage yesterday and now I´m looking for some advice for the first installment/first use when I start the machine for the first time. Can you give any advice for that? I´ve read different things already and would love to hear your tips when starting it for the first time! Cheers
WANT!!🔥❤️
What a lovely upgrade this would be for my Profitec Pro 500. 👍
Hey Marc, great review. I like this machine, is it possible to steam and brew at same time in any of the modes or do you have to be in the highest frothing mode/ highest temp? Thanks!
Hey TJ, yes! If BTC (Brew Temperature Control) is off you can brew and steam simultaneously at any time. If using one of the BTC modes, press the up button during an extraction and the boiler begins heating to the temperature set in T2. As soon as pressure reads above 1.2 bar in the boiler you can begin steaming.
Marc
Hello from Melbourne, Australia Marc. Hope you are well mate. You videos are quite detailed and descriptive. I need to pick between Profitec 400 and this one. There isn't a huge price difference between those two here is Australia. whats your thoughts please? is the difference noticeable to 3 to 4 coffees a day at home. thanks!
Hi a, I am well - especially since we just started summer! Thanks for the kind comments on the videos. Guessing you may already know that Profitec and ECM are sister companies? Anyway, functionality between the 400 and the VI Slim is essentially the same. The Slim has a larger boiler and a little extra detail in finishing like the angled portafilters. At the same price I'd go Slim!
Marc
Thanks for the review! YOu just reassured me that this is the machine I need to get.
On a sid enote: I don't know if you had professional voice training or this comes naturally but I know a lot of singers (me included) who would kill for a timbre like that :D
Hey Herby, Thanks for the kind words!
No pro training but before I got into coffee I did VO work for broadcast TV stations. I'm jealous of singers! About the only thing my singing voice works for is the opening to ZZ Top's La Grange and maybe some Barry White for the wife. 😂
Marc
@@Wholelattelovepage Barry White can get you a long way ;)
Hi Marc. Great videos you guys make! :-) I own a Breville barista pro but I am considering upgrading to this wonderful ECM. You mention that the boiler size is 2,2 liter but at the ECM official website (and in their catalogue) they mention the boiler volume is (aprox.) 1,9 Liters. Did ECM change the size of the boiler in this model? ....and also; how important would you say the boiler size is in normal home use?
Hey Daniel, Thanks for the kind comment on our videos and questions. The 2.2 spec came from our tech dept. My guess is that includes the volume of the heat exchange section of the boiler and ECM's figure does not. In HX boiler machines a larger boiler allows more headroom in the boiler for longer lasting steam and faster recovery after steaming and/or an extraction or pulling hot water from the boiler. How important a larger boiler is depends on how you use the machine. Certainly helps if making multiple drinks back to back. But, if you're making a single drink every 10-20 minutes you likely wouldn't notice the difference with a smaller boiler unless steaming large amounts of milk. Hope that helps!
Marc
I absolutely love the esthetics of the heritage machine. Can you explain why the heritage machine only comes with the one year warranty where most ECM machines come with 3 years?
Hi Lauren, It is a beautiful machine! If you'd like a gig as a proofreader... looks like you discovered a typo - thanks! Just confirmed with our product manager the warranty is same at 3 years.
Marc
@Whole Latte Love this is great news, thank you!
Which heats faster this or the profitec pro 400 since the boilers are different size
Hi pp, The pro 400 has a 1.6L boiler vs. 2.2L in the VI Slim so heats up a little faster. Not a huge difference - talking a few minutes.
looks like an art piece
She's a beauty!
Hi Marc, quick question for you. I see the example you’re using has flow control, however the one on the site for purchase does not, not does it have an option to add it onto the machine. Is this an error, or are they no longer offered with flow control in the heritage style?
Hey km, The Heritage edition can be ordered with flow control. Call Sales here to set that up: 585-924-7170 (Option 1)
Marc
Thank you Marc,
How long is it reasonable to wait to shoot your first shot in the morning (group temperature)?
Hi bttb, I recommend >20 minutes for full heat up of the group with PF locked in. You can help that along a bit running blank shots once you have some pressure in the boiler.
Marc
@@Wholelattelovepage Thank you Marc (I really like the Heritage version)
@@back_to_the_bike8820 She's pretty!
@@Wholelattelovepage yes, what's holding me back is that, even with this new look, it's a machine that's a bit dated for the asking price. There's a lot of innovation going on these days. I'm not sure.
Thanks for everything.
I don’t see ECM Mac VI slim Heritage with flow control in Whole Latte Love website…?? Is still not on the market? Or need to be ordered in customize??
Hi AtbtR, If you call our sales team at 585-924-7170 (Option 1) they can set you up with flow control on the ECM Mechanika VI Heritage.
Marc
Hi Mark- what is the next step up if you want a machine that also has PID control? I do not like the thought of having to rely that those three switches are always working properly. I have a Rancilio Sylvia now and like the PID mod but want to upgrade my machine.
Hi mk, If you like the Silvia a value step up from there is the Silvia Pro X dual boiler: www.wholelattelove.com/products/rancilio-silvia-pro-x-dual-boiler-espresso-machine-in-black
In full PID HX boiler machine I like the Profitec Pro 500: www.wholelattelove.com/products/profitec-pro-500-pid-espresso-machine-with-flow-control
In single boiler full PID there's the ECM Classika which has an E61 group: www.wholelattelove.com/products/ecm-classika-pid-espresso-machine-with-flow-control-olive-wood
In full PID value priced single boiler with ring group the Profitec GO: www.wholelattelove.com/products/profitec-go-espresso-machine-red-with-walnut
Hope that helps!
Marc
Hi Marc, thanks for another wonderful all round review, I need you advise on selecting between Profitech Pro 400 vs ECM Mechanika VI slim, I don't do back to back multiple milk based drinks, I am more into specially coffee and want to extract flavors so extraction quality is what I am looking for....... Thanks
Hi k, Sorry I somehow missed your question. If still considering those machines know they are essentially identical in potential extraction quality. They both have the 3-way PID driven temperature control. Difference is the Slim has a larger boiler. I would suggest getting the flow control version of either machine which greatly expands capabilities using specialty coffee.
Marc
Hi Marc - so my questions is - this model or the Profitec 500 with PID?
Hi DF, Well, there's the aesthetics which are subjective. Larger boiler in the Slim and easier to bump up to higher steaming power. Gauge up high on this one. They're down low on the 500. Our version of the Pro 500 has visible PID and shot timer. No timer on the Slim. Degree by degree temps on the 500 and 2 basic brew temp ranges on the Slim. Hope that helps!
Marc
@@Wholelattelovepage Thanks! I think because of size, the ECM is going to be the better choice for me!
Hi Marc, is this model made in Germany or Italy?
Love your video❤
Hey Ray Ray, Thanks a whole latte for the love. The Mechanika Max is handmade in Italy.
Marc
Hi Marc, can we switch to high-pressure mode while brewing without affecting the brewing temps?
hi dj, Should not affect brewing temps. Not enough time to transfer heat from the steam producing section to the isolated brew water section of the boiler if the shot is already in progress.
Marc
@@Wholelattelovepage makes sense. Thanks Marc!
I am curious about the price difference between the Mechanic VI and the Profitec 500. They are so close in price considering the 500 has so many more features? Can you explain? Trying to decide on which one to get.
Hi Karen, ECM machines tend to run a little more expensive than similar Profitec's. Finishing quality is slightly better and ECM portafilters are angled/balanced. The version of the Pro 500 we carry at Whole Latte Love is an exclusive with the visible PID/shot timer.
Marc
Hi! Where can i found the flow control lever? The machine doesnt have it by default
Hi Marc, I'm a bit confused... On the video the machine has 3 way temperature control but on the site it shows only two... Can you please clarify?
Hi YS, Hmmm... not sure what site you refer to but our site, the manufacturers and this video clearly state/show 3 way temp control: www.wholelattelove.com/products/ecm-mechanika-vi-slim-espresso-machine-heritage-line
Marc
@@Wholelattelovepage in the video there are three pressure measurements, one of them in the middle.
In the site there are only two.
I'm a newcomer so maybe I don't understand. Isn't the device in the middle a part of the machine? Is it flow control that purchased separately?
@@yaronskp I see it, too. The third one, in this video, sits right above the portafilter.
If you are using the pre-infusion function how would I expect that to affect the timing of my shot? Dark roast, 18 grams in/36 grams out in 27-32 seconds on average without pre-infusion. Also, I thought the video said it was shipped with pre-infusion activated by default but I don’t think mine came this way…pump doesn’t turn off after the first few seconds…can I tell just by activating the pump without a portafilter and see if the pump pauses?
Hi Richard, In general pre-infusion tends to speed up shots a bit. So shots are usually a little faster once the pump comes to full pressure. But there are many variables involved. In most cases I grind a hair finer when using pre-infusion. Yes, you can check to see if pre-infusion is enable by raising the lever without the PF attached.
Marc
I bought the Pro 400 in November. This machine looks so much better with the copper finish. I doubt I would pay roughly extra $500 for the looks though.
Hi HH, Thanks for the comment - looks plus larger boiler, angled portafilters.
Marc
They are two slightly different machines build wise, not just cosmetics. Cheers.
Hi Marc, I'm in New Zealand and the heritage model is $600 more than the profitec pro 400. Would the bigger boiler and better finish details justify the price difference?
Been looking at purchasing a machine and have been tossing up between the mechanika , the pro 400 and rocket appartamento.
Hey ed, Thanks for the question. Finish details of the Heritage edition is going to be a subjective call. Personally, I really like the look! The bigger boiler is nice, but doesn't add much to quality of finished espresso - it's more about capacity. So, if not making a lot of drinks back to back or taking off hot water on a regular you're not likely to notice much benefit. Pro 400 is a very similar machine (ECM/Profitec are sister companies) just a little lighter on the finish details. The newer TCA version of the Appartamento has a similar PID controlled temperature range adjustment and a very unique new look for the E61 group head. The TCA uses the E61 lever to program the desired temp range which takes a little getting used to compared to the switch adjustment of the Mechanika and Pr0 400. Hope that helps!
Marc
We started on a Gaggia Classic Pro about 4 years ago which is really starting to show its age. What would the benefits be of upgrading to this, and would you recommend anything similar in the same price bracket? Cheers :)
Hi at, thanks for the question. The Classic Pro is a single boiler machine. Moving up to a machine with a heat exchange boiler give you the ability to brew and steam simultaneously. Also no need to cool down and refill the boiler after steaming. While you can temperature surf the Classic the Slim has a switch for selecting brew temperature ranges appropriate to the coffee you are using. Here are all machines in the $1500 - 2000 range: www.wholelattelove.com/collections/semi-automatic-espresso-machines?pf_p_price=1500%3A2000
Of those in the link I like the Bezzera BZ13, Profitec Pro 500. Those are both HX boiler machines but have more precise temperature settings. The Profitec Pro 300 is a dual boiler that's good for lower volume use. It has more precision in brew temps due to the isolated boiler.
Marc
Hi, How do I turn off the ECO mode, Thanks, David
Hi David, Enter ECO mode in programming and push the down button until screen says off. This video shows how: th-cam.com/video/JiWUAA1kVP0/w-d-xo.htmlsi=77ecju8RxZxv1lDT&t=124
As well as all other menu programming functions
Marc
QQ on a technical / functional front. I just received an ECM Mechanika VI and after the initial setup, the unit WILL NOT stop hissing / sputtering / discharging from the OPV overflow port behind the group head. There is no pause with it, it's going through all the water in the tank, steaming up the entire front of the unit, and making constant noise. Now, this can't be normal right?
Hi a, If in US/Canada please contact our Tech Support staff here for assistance: support.wholelattelove.com/hc/en-us/categories/360005124554-Technical-Support
I would like to buy a Bezzera Matrix, but you dont ship to MX
Hi LB, sorry for that currently US/Canada only.
Hi Marc, how exactly does the VI Slim PID controlled boiler improve from the pressure stat of the V Slim without degree accurate temperature setting? Throughout the shot is there less variation in temperature with the PID or does this result in more consistency of temperature curves shot to shot compared to the prior generation? Thanks!
Hey Austin, Pressurestats have a much wider temperature swing than a PID. In this machine you get 3 (PID controlled) temp presets each of which provides a more consistent temp.
Can someone please explain how to turn eco mode and pre infusion mode on and off? Thanks in advance.
Hi p, How to turn pre-infusion and eco modes on/off is covered starting on page 32 of this manual: www.ecm.de/fileadmin/user_upload/BA_MV-VI-Slim-web-2023-06.pdf
Hope that helps!
Marc
What are the differences compare to older model which is V slim? I'm wondering if I should buy V slim which is on sale WLL, or VI which is new model
Hey J K, The main difference is 3 level PID temperature control on the VI Slim vs. pressurestat control of temps on the V Slim. Pressurestat temps are adjustable but you have to open up the machine to change.
Marc
Hi Marc, since it’s now PID controlled, if the machine sits idle for a while, is cooling flush still required?
Hi Ray Ray, Thanks for the question. Need to flush depends on: How long machine has been on, time since last use, ambient temperature and if portafilter is kept in group while machine is idle. The mix of these variables makes it difficult to give definitive answer. For example: a machine that's been on and idle for an hour in a warm environment without the portafilter in the group might need a flush. A general sweet spot of no flush needed is in the 20-35 minute range after turning machine on. To check if the machine needs a flush run the pump without portafilter in place. If flow out of the group is bubbly and steamy then continue running the pump a few seconds until flow is smooth. If flow is smooth when pump is turned on no flush is needed. Hope that helps!
Marc
@@Wholelattelovepage thank you Marc, this is very helpful!
Just purchased the gaggia classic pro from whole latte love. I have one issue with it. The pressure release wand does not fit the whole where it's supposed to go.
Need someone to call me to discuss a solution for it. As I have been sending messages thru your website and gotten no answer yet.
Hi Tony, I believe you are referring to the Decompression Duct. Here's the video with solution if you're having a hard time installing the duct: th-cam.com/video/t-VYpzMPb9g/w-d-xo.html
Marc
Does anyone with this model (heritage or not) notice that the OPV exhaust port behind the group head is non-stop hissing and sputtering steam? Not just at first, during or after a brew, but all the time? If i did nothing, this would drain my tank after a while.
Hi a, Sounds like (literally) your vacuum relief valve on the steam boiler is not fully closing. Here's a video showing how to fix that: support.wholelattelove.com/hc/en-us/articles/4410889505555--ECM-Synchronika-Clean-or-Replace-the-Vacuum-Relief-Valve
Video demos on an ECM Synchronika but process is similar for Mechanika
The PID switch sounds cool but in practical use, you will have to wait for the temperature in the boiler and grouphead to drop back to the regular temperature suitable for extraction. Making coffee at those temperatures will likely burn off much of the flavours. That cooling takes a few minutes to recover, way more than the 7-second benefit. This may be good if the user is all for the quantity and nothing else.
Longevity wise, setting such high temperature will have a detrimental effect on the electrical components, especially in the summer. It dramatically reduces the lifespan. Given that these machines have very tight space inside, there should be a more significant effect.
Combine with the eco mode, which users may use instead of the given switch to switch the machine off. That's going to stress the components heavily if the user leaves it at the high setting and walks off, which is a likely scenario to happen. The most eco and safest way is to switch the device off after usage, not wait for 90 minutes. The ECO mode is a great feature if the user has dementia.
The fundamental to what WLL said about temperature is accurate, lower temp for a darker roast. I don't know about the lighter roast because it helps, but that's because of more dosage of coffee usually used. It could be a different story if the user uses a low dose or prefers the coffee made in a particular way. In my country, most people prefer the darker roast, like in most places. So the lower range is always safer for taste and the machine.
I don't know how this sense of over-engineering helps users in real life, but it adds a few new points of failure in the technical aspect.
There should be a more considerable difference between the profitec and ECM version, that's the start-up time. It may shave of a few minutes with the smaller boiler.
Nonetheless, this is another excellent video from WLL.
Would be even better if the copper accents excluding massive feet, were actually made of copper and not just faux copper plated.
Hi DB, Thanks for sharing your thoughts. I wonder what real copper would look like after some use? I suppose some might appreciate the patina and others not so much.
Marc
@@Wholelattelovepage Hi Marc, agree. However there are proven methods manufacturers have been using to lock in the look and feel of real copper, for some time now. It will patina to a degree, but not to the point where you are continuously needing to restore it as an end user.
Looking at more detail on this Machanika model, it appears the water and steam plates are indeed made of real copper but not sure if anything else is.
A bit surprised that this machine uses a vibration pump. At this price, I'd expect it to have something quieter than that.
Hi Timur, It sits in a price range similar to other HX machines with vibration pumps. It's currently a few hundred less than lowest priced machine with rotary pump.
Does this guy have a golden voice or what? lol
Why there are 3 watches? You haven't mentioned this important difference.
Hi ander, 3 watches? Not sure what you are referring to.
Marc
Just wondering how long it takes for this machine to fully warm up? How does that compare to the Pro 400 with its smaller boiler? Thanks.
I keep mine on the lowest heat setting (1) and after 25 minutes it's hot enough for my espresso. You could probably reduce the time if you set it to a higher temperature and run some hot water through the portafilter.
My ECM V Slim is ready in 12/13 minutes. Had it for 3 years and very happy with it. It is set at the med setting.
Hi DtT, I generally allow 25 minutes for larger boiler E61 group machines to fully warmup. As mentioned in another comment you can run some blank shots through the PF to help things along. Could also use an appliance power timer to turn on the machine early so it's ready and waiting.
Marc
@@Wholelattelovepage My machine is up to pressure in 10/11 minutes then I run some water through the group head to warm my cup and wait a couple more minutes. Maybe I’m brewing too soon but waiting for 25 minutes I have to run more water to cool it down as there is crackling overheated water coming out. Is pressure not an indicator that the machine is ready to brew?
Hi Marc, how does this ECM or any other ECM HX go with flushing to bring the temp down to brew temp?
Does the brew temp switch on the side act like the Lelit Mara X brew priority switch where it lowers the stream boiler temp to prioritise brewing temperature?
It’s a beautiful machine but If this machine was around that $1700 price point that would be a good buy. For me I would rather just spend an extra $1000 and get the Synchronica. You can spend an extra $300 and get the profitec 600 dual boiler.
Hard to swallow; it's 50% more expensive in the EU than the Proiftec P400.
Hi TC, Wow that's a big difference! Currently much less in US at ~$250-500 USD difference depending on version.
Guess you gotta save up!
I like the size and love the look, but am deterred when you mentioned it is 'sister' of profitec 400. I bought a profitec 500 5 years ago, but only continuously used it for about 3.5 years ffor just one person (me!) and it just stopped heating. I tried everything recommended on the site and from WLL tech support. Nothing worked.
Hi S, Profitec and ECM machines are regarded as among the most well built and reliable machines made. With proper user maintenance they should give decades of service. I do not know the details of your issue but it should be correctable. It may be a simple as resetting a high limit switch on top of the boiler. I urge you to reach out to our tech support team for assistance: www.wholelattelove.com/pages/contact-us
Save an extra $1000 and get the ECM Synchronika. You’ll end up upgrading to it in the future anyway
Hey Brian, yes, start with the Synchronika and you're unlikely to experience upgraditis - a terminal condition, the main symptom of which is the insatiable desire to upgrade.
Marc